TRAVEL + LEISURE WEDDINGS & HONEYMOONS
feeling of mild
lderment, I observed hotel
ts swimming in the pool
-degree temperature andadmired them for taking up this challenge
against heat and humidity. For the second
consecutive day, I was settled in my spot at the
Club Lounge—the table in the business centre
that faces the window has the best views of the
pool and the beach—with a notebook in hand.
A stand-in for all brides who would be picking
up this special issue for inspiration, I had to
shoulder a heavy responsibility, of giving them
a fast-hand experience of what’s it like to be
married at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain. These are
the notes from my three-day recce.
The Kingdom of Bahrain is popping up in travel magazines far
more than it ever did in the past. Now is the time to take notice
of its eclectic dining scene (Manama, American Alley, Gallery
21) and undeniable open culture that accepts all nationalities
(Bahrain has a large expat population; The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain
employees people from 68 nationalities and celebrates their
national days). An archipelago of 33 islands, it doesn’t have the
gloss of its cousin Abu Dhabi and Dubai and that’s its appeal—
it’s earthy, warm, and untouched.
The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain is a beachfront property, the only one
in the city, and has a resort-like feel. It doesn’t look its age—the hotel
is 25 years old (it used to be a Meridien before), but has undergone a
transformation as a Ritz. The 25-acre hotel features 245 rooms and
23 gorgeous villas with private plunge pools, as well as 11 restaurants
and lounges and a beach club. So you know whatever the number of
your wedding party is, you can host an extravagant gala here.
THIS REALLY IS IT
The threads of a wedding are beaded with diff erent events: mehendi,
sangeet, cocktail, haldi, and other reasons that we love to dance and
make merry. I went on a hotel tour with wedding sales manager
Angela D’Silva and it became apparent to me that The Ritz is a
destination within a hotel with charming spaces for everything.
I particularly loved the newly-opened Cantina Kahlo restaurant,
with its vibrant turquoise and Mexican-inspired décor. This,
I thought at fi rst sight, is the perfect place for a themed cocktail party,
which guests can also take outside (weather permitting).
Save the gardens and the tent for sangeet and mehendi, but
where do you say your vows, you ask? The gazebo. There are indoor
ballrooms and outdoor gardens, and even restaurants where you can
tie the knot, but the gazebo has a fairytale setup with waves rolling in
the background and the sun a part of your bridal party—this is the
stuff of dreams (and Hollywood movies).
ON HIM Knit pullover, blazer,
and trousers, Zara; duffle bag,
Da Milano; suede shoes, Clarks.
ON HER Calf-length jumpsuit
and woven belt, Marks &
Spencer; earrings, bead
bracelet, and pearl inset ring,
Apala by Sumit; pointed
pumps, Oceedee.